Contents
COVID-19
We have re-checked every business in this book before publication to ensure that it is still open after the COVID-19 outbreak. However, the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 will continue to be felt long after the outbreak has been contained, and many businesses, services and events referenced in this guide may experience ongoing restrictions. Some businesses may be temporarily closed, have changed their opening hours and services, or require bookings; some unfortunately could have closed permanently. We suggest you check with venues before visiting for the latest information.
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
DESIGNER: MAYA LIN, IMAGE: S-F/Shutterstock
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
POPOVA VALERIYA/SHUTTERSTOCK
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
KARINA EREMINA/SHUTTERSTOCK
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
ARCHITECT: JAMES INGO FREED, IMAGE: CRBELLETTE/SHUTTERSTOCK
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
VICTOR LAFUENTE ALONSO/SHUTTERSTOCK
Washington, DCs Top Experiences
CHRISTIANTHIEL.NET/SHUTTERSTOCK
Dining Out
A homegrown foodie revolution has transformed the once-buttoned-up DC dining scene. Driving it is the bounty of farms on its doorstep, a booming local economy and its worldly young residents. Small, local-chef-helmed spots now lead the way. And theyre doing such a fine job that Michelin deemed the city worthy of its stars.
JON HICKS/GETTY IMAGES
Global Influence
Washington, DC, is one of the most international cities in America, heavily populated by immigrants, expats and diplomats from all over the world. People crave the food of home, and so theres a glut of great international eating. Salvadoran, Ethiopian, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, West African theyve all become Washingtonian.
Local Bounty
The citys unique geography puts it between two of the best food-production areas in America: Chesapeake Bay and the Virginia Piedmont. From the former come crabs, oysters and rockfish; the latter provides game, pork, wine and peanuts. Chefs take advantage of this delicious abundance, and the accolades follow.
Southern Influence
Keep in mind that DC occupies the fault line between two of Americas greatest culinary regions: the Northeast and the South. The city offers heaps of soul food and its high-class incarnations, so get ready for plates of fried chicken, catfish, collard greens, sweet-potato hash and butter-smothered grits.
Best for Foodies
Rustic room cooking up overlooked mid-Atlantic flavors.
Mediterranean shared plates in breezy, island-like environs.
Worth the wait for worldly comfort food and friendly service.
Best Budget
Fifteen seats at the counter for authentic Japanese rice bowls.
Vietnamese pho and lemongrass pork sandwiches.
Best Local
Gossip with locals while downing a half-smoke. (pictured)
Hearty French fare from steak frites to mussels.
Best Vegetarian
Ethiopian stews in a colorful townhouse.
Bright-tiled eatery for vegan Israeli food.
Best Seafood
Shrimp, crabs and oysters fried, broiled or steamed.
Georgetowns river-view hot spot delivers an Italian twist.
Best Sweets
DCs biggest and bestest cupcakes.
French pastries piled high.
Best Brunch
Sink into a retro booth for beer biscuits and house-made pop tarts.
Scarf omelets, berry pancakes and Bloody Marys 24/7.
Worth a Trip: Eat the World
Chowhounds hobnob at Union Market (www.unionmarketdc.com; 1309 5th St NE; mains $6-11;